Frequently Asked Questions
Journey With Gentle Giants - Swim
Overview
- What is the duration of the program and what is included in the experience?
The experience is approximately 2.5 hours, so please plan accordingly. The experience consists of a dive team member picking you up from the desk, a brief tour of the top side of the Ocean Voyager exhibit, a safety briefing that highlights the animals of Ocean Voyager and a 30-minute guided swim. A souvenir photo and a program t-shirt are included, and guests will have the option to view and purchase the video of their experience.
- How big is the Ocean Voyager exhibit, and what will I see?
The exhibit contains 6.3 million gallons of water and ranges from 20 to 30 feet deep (6-9 m) with water temperature controlled at 76°F (24°C). This exhibit houses thousands of fish including whale sharks, zebra sharks, and several species of rays, just to name a few!
Requirements & Accommodations
- What are the age requirements?
All participants must be at least 12 years of age. All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult in the water.
- EACH child 12-14 years old must be accompanied by a participating adult. There is a 1:1 child to adult ratio for children 12-14 years old.
- If one or more of the children are 15 years old or older, there can be one participating adult. There is a 1:7 child to adult ratio for children 15-17 years old.
Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian.
- Am I able to participate in the swim with impairments or disabilities?
Generally, yes! However, any impairments or disabilities MUST be discussed with the Dive Team BEFORE booking. Every person is different, and Dive Immersion strives to make reasonable accommodations to ensure a positive and safe experience for all participants.
Please contact dive@georgiaaquarium.org so we can discuss available arrangements. Failure to do so could result in delay or cancellation of your program.
- Do you offer private changing rooms?
The Aquarium offers two changing rooms, male and female, with open changing area and private shower stalls. We are aware of the limitations this infrastructure presents and recognize that not all guests conform to a binary system of gender. Our aquarium team is committed to making accommodations for any guest who requests additional privacy when changing and will make every effort do so with advance notice. At Georgia Aquarium, both employees and guests are welcome to use the restroom matching their gender identity.
Before & During the Swim
- What equipment is included in the swim program?
All necessary equipment is included in the price of the Swim Program, including a flotation device, mask, snorkel, gloves, booties and wetsuit. Personal masks and snorkels are permitted but must be disinfected by staff prior to swim.
- What should I bring with me?
You will need to bring your swimsuit. All equipment, comfortable changing rooms with showers, lockers and towels are supplied. Personal masks/snorkels are permitted but must be disinfected by staff prior to swimming. Please refrain from wearing jewelry, excessive makeup or hair products.
- Are guests welcome to watch? Do they have to buy a ticket?
Yes, friends and family can watch from the Ocean Voyager tunnel and main window, but they must purchase a General Admission ticket.
If staffing allows, guests will be escorted by a volunteer OR directed to where to go for the best opportunity to see the participants. Staff and volunteers cannot offer care for any minors – they must be accompanied by an adult.
Reservations
- How do I make a reservation?
Reservations can be made online here or by calling (404) 581-4000. You will receive a confirmation email after purchase with an additional information packet and waivers required to participate in the program. Please be sure to review this information before arriving.
All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court–appointed legal guardian.
- Can I buy out a time slot for a more private experience?
Yes. There are eight slots per program and each slot must be purchased to ensure a private experience. Please contact our call center (404) 581-4000 for assistance with your booking.